There’s something irresistibly playful about the idea of combining two beloved desserts into one spectacular creation. As the warm, inviting scent of freshly baked Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a childlike excitement. Imagine rich chocolate brownie layers infused with vibrant red velvet flavor, all generously topped with Oreos and cookies and cream kisses—they’re a decadent delight that transforms any ordinary moment into a sweet celebration.
Baking these brownies isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s a way to create memories. Whether you’re treating your friends to a dinner party or simply indulging yourself after a long day, these brownies are quick to prepare and a sure way to impress. Packed with flavor and texture, they’re more than just a dessert—they’re an experience to share. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s both easy to whip up and utterly scrumptious!
Why You'll Love This Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies
- These Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies are a breeze to make, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve a stunning dessert effortlessly.
- The combination of rich red velvet and cookies and cream flavors makes for a truly indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet craving.
- Their eye-catching appearance with vibrant colors and luscious toppings is guaranteed to wow your guests, making them perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
- Plus, with minimal prep and bake time, you’ll have a delectable dessert ready to serve in under an hour, allowing you to spend more time enjoying and less time in the kitchen.
Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies Ingredients
Prepare to indulge in a delightful blend of flavors with these mouthwatering brownies!
For the Brownie Batter
- All-purpose flour – This forms the base of your brownies, ensuring a chewy texture.
- Cocoa powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness.
- Salt – Just a pinch enhances the overall flavors, making them pop.
- Brown sugar – Packed for that deep, caramel-like sweetness unique to brownies.
- Unsalted butter – Melted creates a moist and rich brownie texture.
- Large eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and adding tenderness.
- Vanilla extract – Elevates the flavor profile, making it even more irresistible.
- Red food coloring gel – Gives your brownies that iconic red velvet hue.
For the Toppings
- Oreo cookies – Placed within the brownie layers for that signature crunch and creaminess.
- Cookies and cream kisses – These melt beautifully on top, adding a sweet, creamy finish to your brownies and enhancing the overall cookies and cream experience.
How to Make Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
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Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a medium bowl until well combined, ensuring no lumps remain for a smooth batter.
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Mix melted butter and brown sugar in a separate large bowl. Stir until smooth, then add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring gel, blending until fully combined and colorful.
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Fold in the dry ingredients gradually, mixing until a smooth batter forms. The batter should be thick and velvety, showcasing that beautiful red hue.
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Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly across the bottom to create a nice base layer.
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Arrange the Oreo cookies evenly over the surface of the first batter layer, ensuring every bite has that crunchy goodness.
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Pour the remaining brownie batter on top of the Oreos, spreading it gently to cover them completely.
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Place the cookies and cream kisses evenly on top of the final batter layer, allowing them to melt into the brownie during baking.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. You want them cooked but still indulgently fudgy!
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Cool completely before cutting into squares and serving. This allows the brownies to firm up a bit, making them easier to slice.
Optional: Consider dusting with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies are an excellent choice for meal prep, ensuring you always have a delicious dessert handy! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the batter as instructed, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the chilled batter into your pan, add the Oreos and cookies and cream kisses, and bake as directed. This method helps maintain the brownies’ rich texture and flavor. For even more convenience, you can also bake the brownies ahead and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. They’ll still be just as delightful when it’s time to serve!
Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own magic into these delightful brownies with these fun twists and substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make your brownies celiac-friendly.
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Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use dairy-free butter for a plant-based version that’s just as tasty.
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Peppermint Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing holiday vibe; pair beautifully with crushed candy canes.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful texture and nutty flavor contrast in every bite.
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Choco-Mint Delight: Swap cookies and cream kisses for chocolate mint kisses to transform your brownies into a minty chocolate dream.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips or fresh raspberries in the batter for added sweetness and a pop of fruity flavor.
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Salted Caramel Drizzle: Top your cooled brownies with a drizzle of melted salted caramel for an indulgent touch that elevates the dessert even further.
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Extra Oreo Boost: Use crushed Oreos in the batter for an extra layer of cookie goodness, ensuring every bite is packed with that classic Oreo flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies
Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week. Just remember that refrigeration can change their texture slightly.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying again.
Reheating: For a warm treat, microwave individual brownie squares for about 10-15 seconds or until heated through, enhancing the flavors.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies?
Looking to elevate your dessert experience? Pair these stunning brownies with delightful complements that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of brownies, creating a heavenly melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of these brownies perfectly.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of this light and airy treat adds texture and a luscious creaminess that enhances each bite.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your brownies introduces an extra layer of indulgence that every chocolate lover will adore.
- Espresso or Coffee: The robust flavors of coffee harmonize with the chocolate, enhancing the brownies’ deep taste while providing a cozy vibe.
- Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: The cool mint flavor adds a refreshing twist that beautifully complements the chocolate richness of the brownies.
These pairings not only complement your Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies but also enhance the overall dining experience, making every moment feel like a sweet celebration.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies, always use room temperature eggs for better emulsification and a smoother batter.
- A common mistake is overmixing the batter, so mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to maintain the brownies’ fudginess.
- When layering the Oreos, consider cutting them in half to create a more even distribution throughout the brownies.
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F to achieve an even bake and perfect texture.
Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients like butter and eggs, go for fresh, high-quality options. I often recommend sticking with local eggs that have a bright yolk—they often taste better. And for the red food coloring gel, make sure it’s vibrant and not past its expiration date to achieve that stunning hue in your brownies.
How can I store Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies?
For keeping your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days. If you place them in the fridge, they’ll last up to 1 week, though the texture may become a tad firmer. A great tip is to slice them before storing, as it makes grabbing a piece easier when cravings hit!
Can I freeze these brownies?
Certainly! To freeze your Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies, first allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply take them out and thaw in the fridge for a few hours, or microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh-baked feel.
What should I do if my brownies turn out too dry?
Very common! If you find that your brownies are dryer than expected, it might be due to overbaking or an incorrect oven temperature. Make sure to check them towards the lower end of the baking time. If you need to salvage dry brownies, try serving them with a scoop of ice cream or drizzling warm chocolate sauce on top to bring back some moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! These brownies contain eggs and dairy, so they aren’t suitable for vegans. If you have a nut allergy, this recipe is nut-free, which is a plus! If you want to make them gluten-free, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Always check the packaging of the cookies and cream kisses and Oreos for allergy information since formulations can vary by brand.
Red Velvet Cookies and Cream Brownies
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup Cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Brown sugar Packed
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter Melted
- 2 large Eggs Room temperature
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon Red food coloring gel For the classic red velvet hue
- 1 cup Oreo cookies For layering
- 1/2 cup Cookies and cream kisses Melt on top
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a medium bowl until well combined.
- Mix melted butter and brown sugar in a separate large bowl. Stir until smooth, then add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring gel.
- Fold in the dry ingredients gradually, mixing until a smooth batter forms.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly across the bottom.
- Arrange the Oreo cookies evenly over the surface of the first batter layer.
- Pour the remaining brownie batter on top of the Oreos, spreading it gently to cover them completely.
- Place the cookies and cream kisses evenly on top of the final batter layer.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
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